Cuban state media in Sancti Spíritus has reported on the emergence of an improvised dump site in a city area where "community hygiene is notably absent." Images published by the Escambray weekly showcase the build-up of waste dangerously close to residential buildings, a scenario increasingly common across the nation.
This time, the report brings attention to the situation on Carlos Roloff Street, at its end in the Garaita area, directly across from the 23 de Diciembre secondary school. The report notes how "garbage has overtaken several meters" of space.
The journalist attributes the problem to various factors: social indiscipline, delayed waste collection by the Municipal Services Company, and the lack of a designated dumping site. These issues have culminated in a dump "that has reached maturity."
Residents interviewed disclosed that waste at this impromptu dump originates not only from nearby homes but also from those situated in the city center. "Adding to this issue is a potable water leak, further tarnishing the image of this city part," the report states.
Once celebrated as one of Cuba's cleanest cities, Sancti Spíritus now presents a bleak picture, with streets and sidewalks littered with garbage heaps. The crisis affecting municipal services is evident in the infrequent operation of waste collection vehicles, leading to a hygiene-deficient environment.
The Escambray newspaper previously highlighted this issue in 2022. Back then, Jorge Luis Manes, the then-deputy director-general of the Budgeted Unit of Municipal Services in the area, acknowledged that streets were overwhelmed with filth and that trash overflow remained uncollected for days at dumping sites.
Manes explained that waste collection was hampered by outdated equipment. "Our machinery is over a decade old, and we lack replacement parts," he stated. Additionally, the entity faced challenges with street sweeping due to a shortage of sweepers.
"Our workforce consists of between 18 and 20 employees, but currently, only four to six are actively sweeping the streets, depending on the area. For instance, in the central zone, significant for being the city's face, we have only six sweepers," he detailed.
Common Challenges in Waste Management in Cuba
What factors contribute to the waste management crisis in Sancti Spíritus?
The crisis is attributed to social indiscipline, delayed waste collection, lack of a proper dumping site, and outdated equipment without replacement parts.
How has the image of Sancti Spíritus changed over the years?
Once known for its cleanliness, Sancti Spíritus now faces a grim reality with streets and sidewalks cluttered with garbage, reflecting a decline in community hygiene.
What is the current workforce for street sweeping in Sancti Spíritus?
The workforce is significantly understaffed, with only four to six sweepers active, depending on the area, compared to the need for 18 to 20.